Traveling to France as a non-EU resident brings up the crucial question of staying connected. With the advent of eSIM technologies, staying connected has never been easier. This guide will help you choose the best options to keep you connected during your trip to France.
In summary:
- Use an eSIM if your phone supports it: Purchase an eSIM online before your trip to avoid any hassle. I recommend Airalo for plans tailored to France.
- Prefer a physical SIM card? Orange is a reliable choice for those who prefer a traditional SIM card.
- Traveling in a group? Opt for a portable Wi-Fi hotspot to share the connection across multiple devices. TravelWifi offers excellent solutions.
Table of Contents
Buy an eSIM
If you have a modern smartphone (generally less than 3 or 4 years old), it likely supports eSIM technology. Double-check to be sure. Buying an eSIM before you leave is one of the best options for travelers, as it allows you to activate a data plan instantly, without the need to physically swap out your SIM card.
Note: These eSIM plans include data only. You won’t get a local phone number, so you won’t be able to make traditional calls or send text messages. However, all messaging apps (WhatsApp, Skype, Messenger, Telegram, etc.) will work just fine.
Here are some top brands I recommend:
Roambit
Their eSIM for France runs on the Bouygues network and supports 3G, 4G, and 5G speeds, with instant delivery via email and activation starting automatically on first data usage. Hotspot sharing is also included.
- 30-day plan: 3 GB of data for $4.99.
- 30-day plan: 5 GB of data for $6.99.
- 30-day plan: 10 GB of data for $9.99.
- 30-day plan: 20 GB of data for $14.99.
Roambit also offers larger packages up to 100 GB, plus group discounts if you’re buying multiple eSIMs for family or friends.
Information about the plans: eSIM for France
Airalo
Airalo is a popular choice among travelers, offering eSIM packages specifically for France and Europe that are easy to install and activate.
- 7-day plan: 3 GB of data for $7.
- 15-day plan: 10 GB of data for $15.50.
- 30-day package: 20 GB of data for $23.50.
More information about the plans
Yoho Mobile
Yoho Mobile is another reliable option, known for its flexible packages designed to meet various travelers’ needs.
- 7-day plan: 3 GB of data for $5.12.
- 15-day plan: 10 GB of data for $11.96.
- 30-day package: 20 GB of data for $22.27.
Holafly
Holafly offers eSIMs with unlimited internet, which you can customize based on the number of days you need.
- 3-day plan: Unlimited GB for $11.70.
- 7-day plan: Unlimited GB for $27.30.
- 15-day plan: Unlimited GB for $50.90.
Travelwifi
TravelWifi provides budget-friendly eSIM packages, focusing solely on internet data.
- 7-day plan: 3 GB of data for $6.99.
- 15-day plan: 10 GB of data for $16.99.
- 30-day package: 20 GB of data for $23.99.
Ubigi
Ubigi offers plans for France, Europe, and even worldwide.
- 3-day plan: Unlimited GB for $20.
- 7-day plan: Unlimited GB for $25.
- 15-day plan: Unlimited GB for $39.
Buy a local SIM card
If you prefer a physical SIM card, buying a local SIM card when you arrive in France is a solid option. One advantage over eSIMs is that you’ll get a real French phone number, allowing you to send and receive local SMS messages.
Major providers like Orange, SFR, and Bouygues Telecom offer prepaid SIM cards that include data, calls, and SMS.
Just make sure your phone is unlocked.
Orange
Orange is the leading telecom operator in France. Their “Holiday SIM” prepaid card includes:
- 20 GB of data (valid for 14 days) for $29.90. Unlimited calls and SMS in France and abroad.
- 50 GB of data (valid for 30 days) for $53.99. Unlimited calls and SMS in France and abroad
You can buy Orange SIM cards in advance or as soon as you arrive in France at locations like Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, Relay stores, Orange stores across France, or at tobacconists.
SFR
SFR offers attractive prepaid SIM cards for travelers. These can be purchased at SFR boutiques throughout France, or at tobacconists and phone stores.
- 10 GB of data for €4.99 (valid for 30 days) with unlimited SMS/MMS and calls in France and abroad.
- 200 GB of data for €9.99 (valid for 30 days) with unlimited SMS/MMS and calls in France and abroad.
Information (website in French)
Bouygues Telecom
Bouygues Telecom provides a range of ready-to-use, pre-activated, and preloaded SIM cards. These are available at any Bouygues store, as well as at tobacconists and phone stores.
- 20 GB Basic+: 20 GB of data with unlimited calls and SMS for €19.90 (valid for 15 days) in France and abroad.
- 60 GB Premium+: 60 GB of data with unlimited calls and SMS for €39.90 (valid for 30 days) in France and abroad.
Free Mobile
Free Mobile offers a highly competitive prepaid SIM card, available for purchase in-store.
- Free 5G package: 350 GB of data, unlimited SMS, MMS and calls in France, and 35 GB of 5/5+G data to over 110 destinations, for €19.99 (valid for 30 days).
Information (website in French)
Buy a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot
If you’re traveling with a group or need to connect multiple devices, renting a portable Wi-Fi hotspot is a practical and cost-effective solution. This small device allows you to share a connection among several users without juggling multiple SIM cards.
TravelWifi
TravelWifi is a popular choice for Wi-Fi hotspot rentals, offering lightweight, easy-to-use devices with various data packages.
- Escape Plan 5Gb/day: For $7.95, you get 5Gb of data per day.
- Escape Plan 10Gb/day: For $8.95, you get 10Gb of data per day.
You can have the hotspot delivered to your home or pick it up at various locations, including Charles de Gaulle Airport, their boutique in Opéra, and Galeries Lafayette on Boulevard Haussmann.
I aim to share my tips and recommendations for the beautiful country of France. My goal is to help you plan your next adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. From finding the best hotels and restaurants, to discovering unique activities and sights, I’ve got you covered!
